A-Z Guide launched for people with disabilities

The first ever A-Z guide for people with disabilities has been launched by the Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds.

The Guide, which includes information on benefits, education, transport, aids and equipment and carers is a joint venture between the Social Security Agency and Disability Action.

Speaking at the Mobility 2002 Show, in the King’s Hall, Belfast, the Minister said: "This new guide to public services is an important step in making sure that disabled people are aware of their rights. It is a signpost to the services that are available from a number of organisations. It gives information on everything from cold weather payments to child benefit, from housing to holidays and from transport to tax.

"It is ironic that people with disabilities are among those most in need of help and yet quite often they have the most difficulty accessing the help available.

"Access to information can mean the difference between getting the help you need and, on the other hand, being unaware of your entitlement and rights. That is why this guide is so important; it points people in the right direction."

Jointly launching the Guide, Monica Wilson, Chief Executive of Disability Action, said: "For over twenty years, Disability Action has been providing a high quality accessible advice and information service to people with disabilities across Northern Ireland.

"We were delighted to be given the opportunity of utilising our expertise and experience, in partnership with the Social Security Agency, to develop the A-Z Guide for People with Disabilities. We are sure this unique booklet will prove to be an invaluable resource for disabled people, carers, families and professionals in Northern Ireland."

The Guide is available in audiotape format and in Braille.

There are estimated to be around 300,000 people with disabilities in Northern Ireland.

The Guide is available at the stand at the Mobility 2002 Show at the King’s Hall, Belfast and can also be obtained by phoning the free phone number or calling at your local Social Security Office. The free phone number is 0800 052 4041 and text phone 0800 052 8090.

(SP)